21st Century Kids: In the Director's Chair

Mona Gilbert, Children's Librarian, Northridge Branch Library,
Budding filmmakers
Budding filmmakers from the Teens of L.A. Film Fest

“Read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read...if you don't read, you will never be a filmmaker.”—Werner Herzog

When I was a child, only a lucky few were chosen to appear in the public realm. For most kids of the time, the only option for a screen appearance were proud parents creating “home movies.” As technology continues to evolve, screen appearances for 21st century kids are a common occurrence, as parents enjoy documenting memorable moments and experiences. Not only are experiences recorded, but also shared with others. Social media can transform a regular moment into a viral sensation, bringing fame and notoriety to kids. Now kids can star, create, and direct their own video endeavors. Current technologies offer opportunities for creating videos, animation, and other adventures in film media. With a little knowledge and practice, the possibilities are endless. Here is a sampling of books that both instructs and inspires budding filmmakers.


In the Director's Chair

“Science Technology Engineering and Math is still necessary to know if you dream of being a filmmaker. Filmmaking is an art form, but with the use of STEM.”—Kailin Gow

Book cover for Who Invented The Movie Camera?
Who Invented The Movie Camera?
Kenney, Karen Latchana

Book cover for Lights, Camera, Alice!
Lights, Camera, Alice!
Rockliff, Mara

Book cover for My Life as a Youtuber
My Life as a Youtuber
Tashjian, Janet

Book cover for Making YouTube Videos
Making YouTube Videos
Willoughby, Nick

Book cover for Make Your Own Amazing YouTube Videos
Make Your Own Amazing YouTube Videos
Juilly, Brett

Book cover for Video Animation and Photography
Video Animation and Photography
Suen, Anastasia

Book cover for Animation Lab for Kids
Animation Lab for Kids
Bellmont, Laura

Book cover for Videos Ideas
Videos Ideas
Grabham, Tim

Book cover for Filming Stop-Motion Animation
Filming Stop-Motion Animation
Saldana, Zoe

Book cover for The LEGO Animation Book: Make Your Own LEGO Movies!
The LEGO Animation Book: Make Your Own LEGO Movies!
Pagano, David

Book cover for The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter
The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter
Kinney, Jeff


 

 

 

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